The Islay Festival - Whisky, Music & Culture
4 DAYS
Trip Info
from$1609
from$1585
Join us on an exciting journey to the Isle of Islay. Experience the island’s famous single malts, traditional music and Gaelic culture at the annual Islay Festival – Fèis Ìle. Islay is the Queen of the Hebrides, and whisky is just one of the jewels in her crown. Visit the Mull of Oa peninsula, the Three Distilleries Path and the island beaches. Discover historic gems, learn about the island way of life, and sample the finest whisky straight from the source. Travel through the west of Scotland, stopping at Loch Lomond, Oban, and Glen Coe. This tour is a feast for the senses.
Highlights
- Luss, Loch Lomond
- Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint
- Port Ellen
- Three Distilleries Path
- Local Whisky Festival
- Mull of Oa
- Dunadd Fort
- Oban
- Glen Coe
Inclusions
- Passionate Local Guide
- 3 nights hotel accommodation
- All ferry crossings
- Whisky tastings at Ardbeg, Laphroaig & Lagavulin
- Whisky Distillery Experience at Bunnahabhain & Kilchoman
Explore More
- Bowmore whisky distillery (pay locally)
The Ceilidh and bagpipe photographs at the Islay Festival were kindly provided by Ben Shakespeare.
Terms and Conditions
The cancellation fees are levied from periods of notice given prior to confirmed/nominate departure date as % of the total trip fare. Cancellations up to 22 days before departure 50% fee. Cancellations 21 days or less incur a 100% fee. This product does not qualify for a deposit option - full payment is required at time of booking. . Please note this tour runs in conjunction with our sister company HAGGiS Adventures.
Select a date to book!
Available Full Limited Seats
Itinerary
DAY 1: Edinburgh - Port Ellen
We depart Edinburgh at 8.00am and travel to the charming village of Luss on Loch Lomond. We continue our journey west, stopping at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, before lunch in pretty Inveraray, which sits on Loch Fyne. Afterwards, we board the ferry to Islay before settling into our accommodation for the night
(Overnight: Port Ellen)
DAY 2: Isle of Islay
We spend our morning exploring the rugged peninsula that is the Mull of Oa. Visit the American Monument from World War l and look out for bustling wildlife in the RSPB Nature Reserve. Enjoy lunch and a dram at Kilchoman Distillery - why not try their famous Cullen Skink? At Kilchoman Distillery you will also learn about the revival of the traditional farm distilling. We finish the day back in Port Ellen with time in the evening to experience the local Islay Festival celebrations.
(Overnight Port Ellen)
DAY 3: Isle of Islay
We spend our morning with a visit to the ancient Kildalton Cross. Next, you can walk the Three Distilleries Path to Lagavulin, Ardbeg and Laphroaig, where you will be rewarded with coastal views and more drams! We then visit our final distillery tour at Bunnahabhain, the most remote distillery on Islay where you can pick up any pre ordered releases. We’ll then go for dinner in a local restaurant and return to the hotel.
(Overnight Port Ellen)
DAY 4: Port Ellen - Edinburgh
We catch the morning ferry back to the mainland, and then continue our journey. The afternoon is spent visiting the historically significant Dunadd Fort and Kilmartin Glen along the idyllic west coast to the bustling seaside town of Oban, famous for its seafood and a perfect stop for lunch. Afterwards, we travel towards Glen Coe; one of Scotland’s most dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes. Soak up the last of the scenery on our drive south, passing the Kelpies; two striking steel structures, and largest equine landmark in the world. We arrive back into Edinburgh at approximately 8.00pm.
Select a date to book!
Available Full Limited Seats
Departure
Edinburgh Bus Station
St. Andrews Square
Edinburgh
Scotland
EH1 3DQ
Departure Time
Please check in at 07.45 for tour departure at 08.00.
Return Time
Tour returns at 19.30
Accommodation
Accommodation Included
Accommodation is included and is in 3* Hotel
3* HOTEL
Highland Hotels are smaller than typical hostels ensuring a cosy and hospitable welcome. Facilities are more limited when compared with most hotels situated in large cities, however, you can be assured of a comfortable stay within close proximity to the centre of town. They are usually family run and have their own individual style and character. They serve a traditional Scottish breakfast and often offer a dinner option too.
ROOM TYPES
Twin Room - One room with two separate beds suitable for one adult in each bed.
Double Room - One room with one bed suitable for two adults.
Accessibility and Facilities
For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.